Best Time to Visit Lake Como: Find the Perfect Season for Your Trip
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The best time to visit Lake Como depends on what you’re after: blooming gardens, colorful foliage, warm days for boat trips, or a peaceful and cheaper escape without the crowds.
After years of visiting (I’ve been coming here for weekends and day trips from Milan since I was a kid), I’ve learned what each season has to offer.
My go-to months are September, October, and May. They’re perfect for great weather, no crazy queues, and a relaxed vibe.
In this guide, I’ll break down what to expect in every season—crowds, costs, weather, and everything else you need to know—so you can find the perfect time to visit for what you’re looking for.
Overall best time to visit Lake Como
The best time to visit Lake Como? Spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) are hands down the top choices.
These months strike the perfect balance: fewer crowds, better prices, and great weather. Plus, you get to skip the chaos of the high summer season.
For me, September and October are unbeatable. October is my favorite month to visit Lake Como.
The colors start to change, the temperature cools down (you probably won’t swim, but trust me, you won’t miss it), and the crowds are gone. It’s peaceful, the villas are still open, and ferry queues are a breeze. Everything feels so much more relaxed.
May and early June are also amazing—sunny days, warm but not scorching weather, and the villa gardens in full bloom. Sure, there might be more people around than in October, but it’s nothing unbearable.
May, June, September, and October are all also great for hiking. Monte San Primo is my go-to hike for incredible panoramic views of the lake—it’s not too difficult and absolutely worth it.
Whether you’re into walking, photography, or just soaking in the vibe, these months make Lake Como even more magical.
Least busy and cheapest time to visit Lake Como
The off-season is the best time to save money and avoid crowds at Lake Como, but timing is everything. Winter might seem like the cheapest option, but with most hotels and restaurants closed, it’s not ideal, especially if it’s your first visit.
Instead, aim for April or mid-October to mid-November, right before or after the busy seasons.
These months are much more affordable and have far fewer visitors than summer, but you’ll still find plenty to do, like exploring iconic villas like Villa del Balbianello, Villa Melzi, and Villa Monastero, taking a boat trip, and exploring the little towns around the lake.
The weather is nice, and the atmosphere is peaceful without the long ferry queues or packed restaurants of summer.
I often visit in November, and, like October, it’s actually one of my favorite months. The foliage around the lake is beautiful, and the towns are quiet (but not dead), so it’s the perfect time for a relaxing and romantic getaway.
This year we visited in mid-November on a beautiful warm and sunny day. It was absolutely perfect: we had breakfast in Bellagio, strolled in the gardens of Villa del Balbianello and Villa Monastero, and had a nice aperitivo on the lakeside in Varenna. All without any crowds at all.
I was with my dog Balù, who is super scared of people, and he had the best time since we were basically on our own the whole time.
The only thing to keep in mind is that ferry schedules are reduced in autumn and winter, so you have to plan your day around them.
April is equally great, especially for garden lovers. I absolutely love visiting Villa Carlotta in early April when rhododendrons are in bloom—it’s literally like stepping into a fairytale.
Just keep in mind that some hotels and restaurants could be closed already, so you might have to compromise a bit on that side.
Worst time to visit Lake Como
Well, it’s true that Lake Como is beautiful year-round, but in my opinion, winter really isn’t the best time to visit, especially for a first trip. The weather is often cold, rainy, and foggy, and the landscape often looks a bit dull and brown.
If you’ve seen videos of Lake Como on Instagram or TikTok… it’s probably nothing like that, unfortunately.
Most restaurants, hotels, and villas are also closed, so your options for things to do are quite limited, and you probably won’t want to spend the day doing a boat trip with freezing temperatures.
Snow-capped mountains might surround the lake, but snow rarely falls near the shore. If you happen to catch a sunny day, the quiet towns can feel peaceful. But honestly, you’ll miss out on a lot: villa gardens, lakeside lunches, and boat trips are all much harder to enjoy in winter. Even ferries aren’t as comfortable—I was freezing on the ferry while trying to take photos outside last time!
I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t say that summer has its own challenges though.
While the weather and views are stunning, the crowds and high prices can be a nightmare. If you’re okay with the heat and a busier vibe, it’s an option, but it’s not exactly la dolce vita.
For the best experience, skip winter and summer, and visit in spring or early autumn instead. These seasons are much more enjoyable, with fewer hassles and better opportunities to enjoy Lake Como.
When to visit Lake Como in detail by season
Summer ☀️
- Why visit in summer
Summer is all about long, sunny days perfect for boat trips, swimming, and enjoying outdoor dining at lakeside restaurants. If you’re dreaming of lazy afternoons by the lake or soaking up the sun, this is your season. - Weather
Expect highs around 30°C (86°F) though it’s not unusual for temperatures to climb even higher around noon. Evenings are usually cooler, with temperatures around 16–18°C (61–64°F).
The sun can be intense, so treat it like a day at the beach—bring sunscreen and stay hydrated. Weekends are especially lively, with Milan locals escaping the city heat to relax by the lake. - Things to keep in mind
The weather is hot, accommodations are pricey, ferries have long queues, and you’ll need plenty of patience at all times.
Summer is beautiful but it comes with crowds—lots of them. To give you an idea, queues for ferries can be so long that more than once I’ve had to wait for the next one because the line filled the boat before I could board.
Finding tickets for villas and attractions can also be a headache. Book well in advance because same-day tickets are nearly impossible to snag.
I tend to avoid July and August because of the heat and chaos, but I get that it might be your only option. Staying a couple of nights is the best way to enjoy a calmer experience in this case. Many tourists visit Lake Como as a day trip, so mornings and evenings are much quieter and more enjoyable. Trust me, it’s a completely different vibe.
Autumn 🍁
- Why visit in autumn
Autumn is peaceful, with fewer crowds and stunning fall colors. It’s a dream season for photography, content creation, or just enjoying a quieter vibe. Popular villas and attractions are much easier to explore without the long queues.
My favorite places to visit are Villa del Balbianello and Villa Monastero. During autumn, you’ll likely have these places almost entirely to yourself—it’s like a dream come true. You’ll have time to stroll around, enjoy the views, spot the places where famous movies like Star Wars and 007 were shot, and take in the beauty without the crowds.
Early autumn is also great for hiking. Monte San Primo is my go-to day hike: it’s easy, rewarding, and offers incredible views of both sides of the lake from the top. Don’t miss a stop at Rifugio Martina for lunch—it’s cozy, and the views are unbeatable! - Weather
Days are mild, with temperatures between 15–20°C (59–68°F) and cooler evenings, around 7–12°C (45–54°F). Late autumn can feel chillier, especially if you’re taking a ferry or boat trip, so pack some warm layers. - Things to keep in mind
By mid-November, many villas, gardens, and restaurants start to close, and ferry schedules become less frequent. Early autumn, until mid-November, is the sweet spot for combining great weather and fewer crowds.
Some villas, like Villa Monastero and Villa Balbianello, stay open all year but may only open on certain days during the weekend (clarified phrasing). Make sure to check ahead and book tickets early.
Winter ❄️
- Why visit in winter
The main reason to visit Lake Como in the off season is that it’s quiet and budget-friendly, but honestly, I wouldn’t recommend it for a first visit. Most villas, restaurants, and hotels are closed, and the weather can feel cold, rainy, and foggy. - Weather
Daytime temperatures average around 8°C (46°F), but it can dip to 0°C (32°F) or less on colder days. You’ll get sunny days too of course, but it’s just not the same atmosphere you would get in spring or summer. It’s also unlikely to find snow in the towns around the lake, like Bellagio or Varenna, even though you might see snow-capped mountains around you. - Things to keep in mind
Winter can feel a bit too quiet, and you’ll miss out on highlights like villa gardens and lakeside lunches. Even ferries run on a reduced schedule, so planning ahead is a must. If you’re set on visiting Lake Como in winter, make sure to check villa opening times and book in advance.
In winter 2025 many buildings are also under renovations.
Spring 🌸
- Why visit in spring
Spring is when Lake Como’s gardens are at their best. Villa Carlotta and Villa Monastero are stunning, especially with rhododendrons blooming in mid-March and azaleas in May.
Swimming might still be too cold for most (like me, I’m not brave enough for chilly water), but there’s so much else to enjoy.
Hiking, walking, and boat trips are ideal this time of year, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices than summer. - Weather
Daytime highs are around 20°C (68°F), with plenty of sunny days. Keep in mind, though, that spring is the rainiest season at Lake Como. Always check the forecast and pack a waterproof jacket, just in case. - Things to keep in mind
It’s not warm enough for swimming in the lake or using hotel pools, but the blooming gardens and quieter atmosphere make spring an amazing time to visit. If you’re into photography or just want a relaxed trip, this is one of the best seasons for Lake Como.
Milan residents love to visit the Lake this time of year to enjoy the first sunny days after a long winter, so you’ll find many Italian tourists. Make sure to book villa tickets in advance because they tend to fill up fast!
FAQs
What are the best months to visit Lake Como?
May, June, September, and October are the best months to visit Lake Como. In May and June, the gardens are in full bloom, and the sunny days are perfect for exploring. September and October are quieter, with cooler weather and gorgeous fall colors. These months strike the perfect balance—fewer crowds, cheaper prices, no crazy queues, and a more relaxed vibe than the busy summer season.
When not to visit Lake Como?
In my opinion, winter is the worst time to visit Lake Como, especially for a first trip. The weather is often cold, rainy, and foggy, and most villas, restaurants, and hotels are closed. While the towns are quiet, you’ll miss out on villa gardens, lakeside lunches, and enjoyable boat trips. If you do visit in winter, plan ahead carefully as ferries run on reduced schedules, and villas like Villa Balbianello and Villa Monastero are only open on select days.
How many days do you need in Lake Como?
If it’s your first time visiting, one day is enough to see the highlights, but you’ll need to move quickly to fit everything in. For a more relaxed experience, 2 or 3 days is perfect. You’ll have time to explore towns like Menaggio and Tremezzo or visit villas like Villa Carlotta and Villa Melzi without feeling rushed. If you can stay 4 or 5 days, even better! Use Lake Como as a base for easy hikes, like Monte San Primo, or day trips to nearby attractions.
What is considered off-season in Lake Como?
The off-season in Lake Como runs from mid-November to March. During this time, the towns are very quiet, with most hotels and restaurants closed. While it’s budget-friendly, the weather is often cold and there’s less to do since many villas and attractions shut down for the season. If it’s your first visit, the off-season isn’t ideal, as you’ll miss out on much of what makes Lake Como special.
Are restaurants and shops open in the off-season?
It depends, but most hotels, restaurants, and many shops close during the off-season, especially from mid-November to March. If there’s a specific place you want to visit, it’s best to check ahead of time. The towns are very quiet during this period, so it’s not the liveliest time to visit. For a first trip to Lake Como, I’d recommend choosing another season when more is open and available to enjoy.
Are ferries and public transportation available year-round?
Yes, ferries and public transportation operate year-round at Lake Como, but schedules are reduced during autumn and winter. Plan ahead, as the limited service can mean longer waits between ferries or buses, especially if you’re visiting in the off-season.
Are the gardens and villas open all year?
Not all gardens and villas stay open year-round. Some close during winter, but famous spots like Villa Balbianello, Villa Monastero, and Villa Melzi are usually open. However, in winter, they’re often only open on weekends or select days, so it’s essential to check their schedules in advance and book your tickets as early as you can.
So, when is the best time to visit Lake Como?
The best time to visit Italy as well as Lake Como really depends on your travel style, but in my opinion—and after countless visits—it’s hard to beat September, October, or May.
These months offer a perfect balance: fewer crowds, no crazy queues for ferries or villas, and stunning scenery.
September feels like summer without the chaos, while October and May bring beautiful foliage or blooming flowers.
I visit every year in October and May because they’re my absolute favorites, but November is another hidden gem. The weather is chillier, and some restaurants are closed, but it’s incredibly peaceful and romantic. The vibe is just so much more relaxed.
If you’re still feeling unsure about when or how to plan your trip, I’m here to help!
With my travel planning services, I can help you understand the best time to visit Lake Como for your specific needs and travel style or even create a custom itinerary tailored to your preferences, from must-see spots to hidden gems.
Let’s make your Lake Como getaway unforgettable—contact me today to get started!
Read more about Lake Como here:
- 2 or 3 day Lake Como itinerary: a complete travel guide
- One day in Lake Como: best itinerary for first-timers
- How to visit Villa Balbianello (Star Wars Lake Como villa)
- 7 Amazing Day Trips from Lake Como to Add to Your Itinerary
- The Best Boat Tours to Explore Lake Como (for Any Budget!)
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